Pakistan too slow

Pakistan cricket captain Misbah-ulHaq has been suspended for one test match and fined 40 per cent of his match fee for maintaining a slow over rate during their first test loss to the Black Caps in Christchurch.

Misbah would have missed the second test of the two-test series, in any case after flying back home following the death of his fatherin-law.

His suspension would be considered served anyway, the International Cricket Council said.

Pakistan team players were also fined 20 per cent of their match fee after they were ruled to be two overs short of their target of 103 overs in Christchurch, where they lost by eight wickets.

It was Misbah’s second minor over-rate offence in 12 months, after another against England at The Oval in August, prompting the suspension.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has already named Azhar Ali to lead Pakistan in the second test, which starts on Friday at Hamilton’s Seddon Park.

Earlier, Ali said Misbah’s absence would be a huge setback against the Black Caps.

‘‘He’s been exceptional through the years and we’ll miss him definitely,’’ Azhar said.

‘‘Hopefully, whoever comes into the side will take that opportunity and give us runs.’’

Options to replace the 42-yearold Misbah include Sharjeel Khan and Mohammad Rizwan, who are both yet to play a test, but have featured in limited overs cricket.